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NSA Bahrain Welcomes New Commanding Officer

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS060602-14
Release Date: 6/2/2006 3:19:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Aaron Pineda, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

BAHRAIN (NNS) -- Capt. Mark J. Deardurff relieved Capt. Gary D. Galloway as commanding officer of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain during a change of command ceremony here, June 1.

During his departing remarks, Galloway thanked all those who have worked hard in support of naval forces conducting maritime security operations (MSO) in regional waters.

“This is the most critical and dynamic area of responsibility in the world today from a political, military, and cultural engagement perspective,” said Galloway. “Each of us will make a contribution during our time here that, collectively, will shape the future of the world for generations, and nothing less than generations. We're writing a chapter for the history books - let's give it a happy ending.”

As NSA Bahrain's commanding officer, Galloway was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the base, including security, administrative, and logistics support to Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander U.S. 5th Fleet, and the 76 tenant commands that call the base their home.

Galloway will move on to U.S. Central Command in Tampa, Fla.

After officially accepting command, Deardurff expressed his enthusiasm for his new role as NSA's commanding officer and the responsibilities it entails.

“I'm happy to be here and look forward to working with you for the next 18 months,” he said. “I want to thank each and every one of you who are making great sacrifices by being here in a remote location. I want you to know that your service to our military and our great country do not go unnoticed.”

Prior to arriving in Bahrain, Deardurff served on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C.

MSO help set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment, as well as complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. These operations deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.